Lady Opheliac's Insane Asylum

New Things; AFP & Skindred

2009-09-24T02:29:00.010+01:00

Well well well my darlings. I have a lot of things to tell you about this time. It's awesome, because life seems to be going well for me at the moment. As you may know (or not..) I have been transferred to a different Mental Asylum. I do miss most from my old place, even some of the doctors. However I have made lots of friends, visited lots of people and generally having a very good time at the moment. So my darlings, Here is what I have been doing;

I saw Amanda Palmer live (11/09/09) AGAIN dolls. It was awesome, and one of the most unusual gigs I have been too. For those whom follow Amanda, will know that she has a habit of doing odd things. Well this venue was a church. Yes indeed my darlings, slightly going against all my principles here, as usually I would never set foot in a church however AFP made it all right. All the audience sat in the pews, which was pretty cool. But before I tell you about her show; she had a support called Polly Scattergood. Now, I was thoroughly looking forward to seeing the support, seen as last time her support was brilliant and I loved them. I didn't think much of Polly Scattergood though. A bit... flimsy her songs were. She had a nice enough voice, but wasn't using it to her advantage. However she did show it off later on. Amanda's gig was very fun; seen as she hadn't planned very much of it, didn't know what to play and interacted with the audience. I really like Amanda's shows because you don't just hear her music you also experience her personality, I feel that you don't get that a lot with gigs. I went with my step dad as I did last time (the only reason the doctors would let me out) and we both though it was a brilliant gig. Though undecided as to whether the first or this time was better. In this show she did different songs, and didn't have the danger enable so everyone focused on her more. My favourite ones she did was 'Mandy goes to Med School' 'Missed Me' and she did 'Will' too because the Church had an organ, which was really good. She also played some stuff on her Uke like Making Woopie, along with a rendition of 'Puff the magic Dragon' with Polly ScatterGood. Someone has made a montage of her show on the 11th. which i must say was brilliant and i would consider traveling half the country again to see her.

My my my, Dolls, you will never guess what. I have a new addition to the family, I have been lent a Tenor Saxophone. He is truly beautiful in many ways. Compared to my Alto he is quite big and makes a lovely sound. Now he is only a temporary addition to my musical family; though I don't know for how long, but I was given him by the band I play for 'MYJO'. I am still playing my alto though for the school jazz band so she wont be forgotten don't worry.

Darlings, have you heard the news? 2 of my favourite bands have released new CDs and I have managed to get my greedy little hands on them both.

Skindred's 'Shark bites and Dog Fights' apparently mini album still has a substantial 8 track on, Its a brilliant CD. Heaver then their last one, a little more metalish but still sounding like Skindred and some brilliant new tunes. It's defiantly stuff to Mosh/Dance/head bang too.
Pearl Jam's 'Backspacer' is a pretty good CD. the more I listen to it the more I like it. It's a good CD with a good range of what Pearl Jam can do. It's also nice too see them Keeping with their music and producing good stuff. However I do have one qualm with the CD, yes I know my darlings, shocking. But it seems to me that Eddie Vedder, whom has the voice of a god, is starting to sound a little more like Chris Cornell and people like that. I am slightly scared, if I may says so.

Now last but defiantly not least my darlings; I saw Skindred live (10/10/09). Oh My Gosh. one of the best concerts I have been to in a while. I will start of with the supports. they had 3 supports 1 of them I couldn't tell you the name of because they never mentioned it in their set, however I didn't think much of them (they were out of key A LOT). The next support band where Karnivool. These were amazing, his voice was brilliant and they had a mixture of very heavy and light stuff. The guitars reminded me of Tool a little bit, and these completely took my fancy. I now have both their CDs. Lets just say; I didn't expect them to be That good live. I wish they could have done a longer set. After 'Karnivool' was 'Dead by April'. These are a screamo-y band whom where quite good. I enjoyed their set, heaver than the others, they had great mosh pits and were really energetic on stage. moving on to the main band of the night; Skindred. They were brilliant Benji got the whole crowd jumping up and down waving their arms. It was so fun. I was being pushed and shoved about, however you have to expect that with everyone jumping at the same time. And I enjoyed the pushing a shoving because it had its benefits, I was right at the front of the gig for the last 2 songs. They played songs from all their albums which I was pleased about; Starting off with one from their new songs Stand for Something then took a range from 'Roots Rock Riot' and 'Babylon'. They played most of my favourite songs, which was really good, and most of the songs they played were the heaver ones which meant a great time for headbanging. Benji's voice was superb along with the guitar playing and drumming. I found it great fun, one of the best gigs i have been too in a long time. Also one of the ones I have spent the most at. buying 2 CDs and a Skindred Hoodie; but they are worth it. I am now nursing a soar throat and a bad neck, but the doctors will help me with that.

Anyhow my darlings, now on to art. I have been given a years subscription to Deviantart by one of the most generous and talented people. Some of you might know him... he does a lot of things; He Blogs, Takes Beautiful photos, and is in to some very good music. Adrian is very cool and I suggest you follow him, but not in the stalkerish sense.. because that's my job. Anyway he is really supporting me and my work, encouraging me and stuff like that and I have to thank him. Slowly more and more people are starting to enjoy my work, which is something I am really pleased about.

Now now my darlings, I have to be off. I'm being called to be sedated, apparently I was far too excited last night and the doctors didn't like it.

Enjoy,
XxX

I'm so sorry my darlings, but Happy News.

2009-08-29T00:20:00.007+01:00

Urrmm, my dearest darlings,

I know it has been a while. When i say a while, i mean a long while, and i am truly sorry. However i am not going to ponder on the sorriness that i have for not carrying the blog for all you dolls out there. For if i did i fear it would be bad for the brain, and probably land is in a slight problem with the doctors. you never know; we might be experimented on more O__O. I have decided not to give up on this blog; although i feared i might, which could have been a tragedy uncompromising to Romeo and Juliet. Let me explain my darlings.

As i said in my last post; I had come to an important block in my life. No they weren't going to let me out of the asylum; but I was to be tested by the doctors of education. I do not see how this 'testing' can be good for the mental health, which may i add for most of us is unstable at the best of times. However very recently i have had the results to the examinations, and have come out quite please with myself. I received from these generous body's 4 A*s, 5 As, 2 Bs, and 1 C. Extremely pleasing do you think not? I received the C in Spanish; therefor forgiveness is required as languages are especially not my strong point. The 2 Bs in Religious education; I have no beliefs therefor find it hard to empathise. The other in English; If you saw the state of my spelling on this you would know why (Praise be to the spell checker). I proudly hold my As And A*s out for people too see. My claim that I am an educated person not to be scoffed at; i can go far and do what i will, and with determination get what I want. A lady even in this age should be able to push against the crowd and get what she wants.

In the time that i haven't been blogging, my darlings, i have been doing a lot. When i finished in the institution I decided to go back and help out with the Artistic, scientific and dramatic sides of things. Then when the summer came I have been doing a fair amount of Art & Photography. I have visited the good ships HMS Warrior and HMS Victory, the most beautiful battle ships there ever have been. You can see some of my art and my Photography if you are interested in my dA Click here. Or visit my Portfolio Here. Apart from traveling and things of an artistic desire, I have been reading and listening to music (of course) too keep my sanity levels up and while away those long summer nights.

A couple of reviews here for you my dolls:

1. The new CD by 'The Eels' called 'El hombre Lobo: 12 songs of desire'
A brilliant CD by The Eels and they have defiantly moved up a notch in my books (not that they weren't near the top already) The songs are very well written with great tunes. Although they are not heavy songs, they don't really fit in to any genre. The Eels have moved away from their 'normal' sound and have made it more primal. This is really effective and gives the extra edge to their songs.

2. 'The Time Travelers Wife' The Book
Now, i know they are making this in too a film and i hadn't gotten round to reading it so i thought i should. I have been meaning to read this for a long time, so my expectations were high. Its a very good and well written book. Its a romance, but a very complicated one, which of course makes it all the more interesting. It's also narrated by both the main characters, which i must admit is slightly confusing at the start, but you get used to it. Also another thing that is slightly confusing is that its in a slight chronological order not to her or even him, to time. This may sound weird but once you have read it you will understand what I'm babbling on about. Anyway; I love the way its so different from all the other book I have read ( i mainly read sci-fi lol.) in plot lines, layout and narrative. Seriously I recommend.

3. 'Scarlatti: Stabat Mater, Salve Regina and other works by Purcell and Bach' The CD.
The voices of angels hit my ears, no wait... i was listening to the CD. I got a bit confused at first because i am an Atheist, thinking wait a second.. this shouldn't be happening to me. It wasn't so i needn't have worried. Anyhow; this CD is amazing the range that you can get out of voices... O__O. Its defiantly one of those that you sit down and listen too; then realise the world is so beautiful, music is so beautiful and try not to cry.

Anyways my darlings i best be off to check the wardens are still out so i can sneak back to my cell without being caught.
I wish you all the best, enjoy the feast and all that...
Loves.
XxX

Obsessions And Amanda Palmer

2009-02-15T16:05:00.025Z

My Darling darlings,

Indeed what an interesting few weeks it has been. Well I am here today with some music (yes dolls, more of it). however, as some of you might already know, the exam period is coming up and around that time I am getting more and more booked up. I shall take you through my Diary; March 22nd I am going to see Wednesday 13 (ohhh yes.) March 27th I am off to Poland, Krakow (or however you spell it) for the weekend with my school, we are going to visit alswich (I have no clue of the spelling sorry my dears). Then the Tuesday (the day after we get back from Poland) its Practical Exam week. To jump for joy would be just a slight exaggeration. With My Art Exam (i'm excited about this one), Music (will be okay), Applied Performing Arts (I hope to high heaven that this will be okay) and Spanish (Hmm.. no comment?)

Also my darling, as you can see I have had a little re-vamp of my blog. The URL has been changed (to make things simpler/more complicated.) As your eyes can view, it is now NOT the_asylum_for_victorian_girls because I got bored of that and it was too long; so it is now just LadyOpheliacsAsylum. Also for those of you whom may be really observant and have noticed that I have changed from 'The Insane One' to 'Lady Opheliac' shall be rewarded; with more time in the padded cell. However you may be wondering why Lady Opheliac? Well my dolls, you curious minds shall have to probe no further. I often call myself Lady Opheliac because Opheliac means Obsessive, it is taken from Shaggspeares character Ophelia from Hamlet; she was obsessed with Hamlet and consequently drowned herself over it (I hope my demise shall be a little more dramatic). For me, I have quite an obsessive nature, for those whom know me they will see it as my MSN screen name, Myspace and Bebo; all the other names have Victorian in them. Actually this leads me neatly on to my next subject.

Lately I have had a realisation, its a very weird realisation, and quite hard to explain so please do bare with me while I try. Obsessions take many forms, people obsess about many things. I for instance am quite an obsessive person, however lately I have found one thing has been taking over my life. Without it, i am longing for it; with it, i go through so many emotions that it practically impossible to get down in words. This 'thing' is everywhere. Music. I bet you are thinking 'music that's not a bad obsession'. Which is true I mean there are allot worse things that e.g. Drugs. However Music is my own personal heroin (quote stolen from twilight sorry), and I am addicted. I could try going cold turkey, but if i don't have a hit in the next 2 hours... Mayhem will erupt and madness might take over fully. Not a nice sight.

Anyway, talking about musical Madness; Miss Amanda Palmer = Musical Goddess.
Oh My Gosh.
If any of have listened to her album, or listened to the Dresden Dolls, well it was like that except 100x better. Seriously, her gig was absolutely amazing. If you want proof (not that you should because you should be able to take my word on this) Just type in "Amanda Palmer London" in to YouTube. That should be enough proof, though it was one of those gig where you just had to be there to get the whole feeling of the love. I have even got a link for you "Oasis in minor" [people are laughing at the beginning not because of the song but because the song is meant to be in a major key and it doesn't sound right, so don't be offended] I was standing next to the person who filmed this, that's how close to the front I was. She played some amazing songs and some of her more famous ones from TDD. She was one of those gigs where you left and you were speechless for the next hour; however over the next 5 days you cannot stop speaking about it (out came the sedatives so the doctors could get some peace.)

Amanda can't get all the credit for that gig though because her support band was Detektivbyran. Its like listening to a Swedish Fairground [their Myspaz] They get so passionate about their music its brilliant to see them on stage. Although there is no singing, which means no front man however they are still as entertaining as any band to watch. The accordion player jumps around as the drummer plays on this miniature drum set or often anything her can get his hands on; he played the scissors in London. Last of all the guy on a vibraphone (it's a bigger version of the glockenspiel.. how cool?) just being generally laid back and cool. It was one of those bands that you hear live, then buy their record straight away from the Merchandise stand.

Musical news at the moment that is rocking my world (the rocking is sometimes the madness, though mainly the music);

Skindred have a new single out "Electric Avenue" they have completely out done the original song, making it their own but still keeping the feel to the song. [have a look at the treats down the bottom of this post] It's great, they keep the beat of the song but make it have heavier guitars and add more of the ragga feel it it. For those whom loved the original I think you are going to like this one too. Its on their Myspaz too if you want to check it out.
Faith No More are headlining Download and I really want to go. I thought Korn, Slipknot, Killswitch engage, Pendulum and The Prodigy where enough to make me want to go. But now... Faith no more, The Blackout and Dream Theatre have all been confirmed. I have to go. HAVE. There is no choice about it. However I think I will have to save up a little (madness and music addictions seriously don't help with the saving process).
My Saxophone is fixed! It broke last week, so I have not been able to play the lower register on it.

So with this my darlings it is quite a busy month ahead with all the revising (cough) and Art work that I am going to be doing (art doesn't feel like work, and at least it may stop me from spending). Wish me luck as I dive in head first without a helmet to protect me in to the cabaret of life.

As Skindred would say "I'm in love with you, but are you in love with me?"
Just fire the love, as I wish I could adorn you with it.

XxX

P.s. a little treat.

I'm sorry again, but I bring gifts?

2009-02-02T22:41:00.014Z

Darlings, my sweet sweet darlings, I am terribly sorry about the wait. [that's if anyone can be bothered to read my spontaneous blogging in this god forsaken world.]

You may well ask how is the asylum doing at the moment, for we have not heard any news in months and to speak plainly, didn't know whether you were dead or alive. Well my Dolls i am neither dead nor alive, I am just in a state of being. The asylum i must admit has been quite eventful, and also rather a bore. Christmas has been and fled, the new year is well on its way to getting its coat and leaving, but yet i sit here in an asylum typing away with snow outside. Peculiar? defiantly. I say the world has gone mad. However, the inmates all have to be kept inside, for the teachers whom give them regular lessons in insanity cannot make it to the institution [in English: school has been canceled for tomorrow]. Indeed, my dears, its going to be a frightful bore. Snow does nothing for me, as i do for it. It makes the place pretty on the eye and that is it. However it makes life uneasy for me, a disruption in the routine is bad enough but to have nothing to do, nothing to fill my mind throughout the day; nothing to inspire, to learn or create. Nothing can make the day go more slowly. Though i might just introduce you to some antidotes to this insanity.

I have a brilliant band that are new to my ears; SKINDRED.
They are a fantastic fusion of Reggae Punk and Metal. Probably one of the first Rapping bands that I have truly loved and one that manages to blend it so perfectly with some screamo and heavy guitar. After only listening to them for ooh about 3 weeks I am madly in love with their sound. Mind, this was love at first hearing. Forming in 1998 with 2 albums out "Babylon" and "Roots Rock Riot" there is a brilliant vibe to their music. There is another reason to why I like them, not only are all their songs very catchy (which in a metal genre is quite hard to do) but not too many of them are about love which is what most songs seem to be about most days, Skindred like to sing about their music, World state and life in general. With songs like "Rude Boy For Life" it talks about how being hard is not the answer. "if you Rude Boy For Life, Always running in to worries and to strife, Rude boy for life, always running on the edge of a knife" (also an extreamly catchy song... I only need to listen to it once and it stuck... forever.) With some bands you just don't get the feel for them, however its amazing how much passion this band can put in to one of their songs. I haven't seen them live but I would love too, they won the Kerrang Best Live Band award and have toured with the likes of Flogging Molly, Gogol Bordello and are going to play at Hammerfest in April. I have to say my favourite songs at the moment (for they are changing all the time the more I listen) "Pressure" "Trouble" & "State Of Emergency" which all have amazing vocals from Benji Webb and the guitar parts are particularly exquisite. As I listen more, the mix of genres becomes more and more addictive, but with better highs than any drug could offer. This is one of those bands whom i would absolutely love to see live, you can just imagine the whole ground shaking from the thump of the bass and the crowed just willing to have a good time. Pure heaven on the ears and it makes my heart jump every time I hear them. (I have now listen to them so much that I know all of their songs from the first 5 seconds...)
This band however didn't form out of nothing, the lead singer Benji Webbe's previous band, Dub War, released one album however rehearsals for a new project featuring other Dub War veterans didn't work out, but soon Webbe had hooked up with bassist Daniel Pugsley, guitarist Mikey Dee, and drummer Dirty Arya, and Skindred was officially born. Something positive out of something sad. Dub War has a similar sound to Skindred, though less reggae, and are just as brilliant. Its sad that they split up, but if they hadn't then we wouldn't have this brilliant band that is here today. Seriously CHECK THEM OUT. [their myspaz]

Now now, my dears I'm sure you remember i mentioned Kerrang in the paragraphs above, well i went to the Kerrang Relentless tour. Yes the asylum had another outing, the doctors are being very generous of late i must say. It was brilliant. There were 5 bands touring and having heard only one of them before (on CD and Live) i think i will give you my opinion.

In case Of Fire
Black Tide
Dir En Grey
Bring Me The Horizon
Mindless Self Indulgence

Unfortunately, or fortunately which ever way you want to look at it we arrived half way through the set of In case of Fire. However what I heard from that second half of the set i wasn't too impressed with. Now, I will give them credit, the guitarists were quite good. However it ether wasn't their day or they had manage to play all their good songs first. The vocalist was very shaky and the vibe in the room just wasn't pumping.
Black Tide where good. They managed to get the crowd pumping and a good vibe going throughout the club. However they weren't as impressive as some of the other bands, but weren't the worst ether.
Dir En Grey, I got home and looked them up straight away. I loved them. Even though they are Japanese so no one knew any of their lyrics they were by far one of the better bands playing. They are much better live than they are recorded. The lead singer is very theatrical and had an amazing voice, that was one of the main points. Also they had some amazing guitar solos in the middle of their songs which were perfect for head banging too. They were probably the heaviest band there but they got everyone jumping.
Bring Me The Horizon. where do I start? actually i need to re phrase that, where is there to start? Ollie Sykes screaming his head off, showing no vocal talent at all, the guitarists headbanging and i swear they were forgetting to play the chords. And as for the drummer, well, i think he was the best out of the whole band, considering that was all you could hear. They where the reason for all the stuck up kids that were there with the BMTH T-shirts that don't know the moshing metal code. Yes, they don't know it, but more about that later.
Mindless Self Indulgence, or MSI for short. Oh My Gosh. i really don't knwo where to start with these. They are absolutely amazing. Their gigs have always been very entertaining and despite loosing Lyn-z (thanks Gerard Way, prick) they were still as good as ever. Jimmy, i swear i don't know how he sings that fast, he is just brilliant. He doesn't have the best of vocals, but being a punk-ish band vocals aren't that important and it suits their songs. Jimmy stripped on stage for us again, while giving us a preview for their next single. It was just brilliant. The energy in the room hit the roof, everyone was jumping and singing (even if they didn't know the words.) These by far were the best in the tour.

Metal Moshers Code:

Always help people up if they fall over
Always say thanks if someone helps you up
Never involve people who don't want to be in it
Protect those whom don't want to be in it

Quite simple really, logical and good manners. So why is it that BMTH fans can't follow this simple code? The reason i am saying this is because my friend was in a mosh pit, he helped a guy up then the guy went and smacked him round the face. Guess what t-shirt he was wearing? yep you got it, BMTH.

Anyhow enough of me complaining, I have some very VERY VERY exciting news. Amanda Palmer is coming to London (Electric Ballroom, Camden) on Wednesday. This Wednesday. February the 4th to be precise. AND I HAVE TICKETS. Oh my gosh its going to be amazing. Now for those whom don't know who Amanda Palmer is, she is the lead singer of 'The Dresden Dolls' on her solo tour with her debut album 'Who Killed Amanda Palmer'. WKAP is a great CD with many a brilliant track, produced with Ben Folds. AP has a different sound to TDD in that she is slightly softer and there are more instruments in her solo stuff. Its an AMAZING album and i really really really can't wait to go and see her live!

Well My Darlings, I hope that has satisfied your greedy little minds. I'm going off to ask for more sedatives until Wednesday, I think I will need them. I hope you bode well in the Asylums and I hope to catch up soon,
Your Insanity

XxX

P.s. I Love You.

The Asylum Gets An Outing!

2008-11-12T15:36:00.002Z

Mourning My Darlings!

3 Months is too long I am so sorry my darlings, you should not go through that. Gahh So much, so so much, yet so little, oh so little time. With this snatchlet of time my darling, oh yes my darlings, I would like to recount to you the many outings that the asylum has had. which have obviously had effect on the clear sanity of ones mind, thus throwing one in to a emotional roller coaster if I may say so myself. 'Tis now 5am in the morning so you will have to 'scuse some of my grammar and technical English language as I type like a mad man on speed. Ahhhhh my brain, so much to write, so little brain space.

Indeed it is true, the asylum got an outing well few but lets start at the beginning. See what happens if you are nice to the doctors? Well, speaking of doctors... I had the chance to go and see David Tennant play Hamlet at the RSC. My first proper Shaggspeare play, I have been to see some of the RSC shaggspeare musicals. However, I must say that the whole play was mentally astounding, I was on the edge of my seat for most of it. The actors, Oh the actors. Find me a way to get on a stage like them and I will take it. Even if it entails murder and sanity. Aha! well maybe that's how I shall get on the stage. MURDER. Of course this would end up in the murder of me and no one else (fore it is widely known that I die in most plays I'm in.)But how will I make them see? how how? damb school scuppers all my roles my typecasting me. I can shout; I get it. Bitches. To hell with them. anyhow, I thought David Tennant in the role of hamlet was amazing, his madness scenes I could relate to.. well very near enough anyway. The girl... yes her, whom played Ophelia , wait for it, Maria Gale, brilliant. Perfect:

"There's rosemary, that's for remembrance; pray, love, remember: and there is pansies. that's for thoughts. [To King.]There's fennel for you, and columbines. [To Queen.] There's rue for you; and here's some for me: we may call it herb of grace a' Sundays. You may wear your rue with a difference. There's a daisy. I would give you some violets, but they withered all when my father died. They say he made a good end— "Act 4 Scene 5.

'Tis true I will have to remember that quote. Anyway back to the Hamlet outing. I found Patrick Stewart's performance rather disappointing. Alas him being trained as a classical actor rather hindered his performance. How ever the experience was mind blowing, to see some of Britain's best actors on stage in front of me.

Moving on to another outing I have been too. Yes My darling the time has come and gone and I loved it wildly. Oh my life it was, indescribable, unexplainable, Ecstasy. Truly a pinnacle point for the asylum. Well being Miss Autumn's Gate tour we were allowed glimpses of her asylum, whom are in it, why and what is happening. Well, Well, they played the most beautiful peaces. When I say they, I do mean Miss Emilie and her Bloody Crumpets. Yes, New Crumpets! The rumours are true my darlings, unfortunately this means that some of the other crumpets weren't there. Miss Maggot was the newest companion, a brilliant act of madness. She is a darling pirate, who try's to make everyone walk the plank or into her cutlass. The gig was brilliant though. She sang extremely well that evening and some of my favourite songs too. The Art Of Suicide was brilliantly dramatized by the crumpets, as was Manic Depression on of my favourites of EA’s own composed violin shredders (‘tis my ring tone.) It was beautiful, to the point of crying, but alas I didn’t fore it would have ruined my makeup.

Oh and also I forgot a most fabulous thing, well except for Emilie of course. The Costumes! they were amazing, Miss maggot as you can see, has a very inspirational costume. Being a pirate, she carries a sword to her side and wears a darling pirate hat, her corset is laced tightly and her striped stocking with bloomers and a garter belt. Her bright orange hair just finishes off the outfit. Now, to Emilie’s outfits; she had 3. The first, and most glitzy is her mouse one. Grey stockings, grey hot pants with lots of lace and frills may I add, attached to the hot pants there was a mouse tail wrapped in bandages (poor poor mouse). Then the corset, and what a corset! Grey diamante, white boning with a white heart. I don’t think this was laced too tight though, otherwise Madam Emilie wouldn't have sounded so lovely. Protruding from the corset was a grey lacy top, with a high collar and open front this was sleeveless, but to combat the cold (not that it was cold in there, but it was cold outside) She had a beautiful pair of gauntlets, grey of course to carry on the theme but also with a shredded effect on the cuffs. And then to finish this outfit off, she had a pair of darling mouse ears attached to that bright pink mane of hers. Her third outfit, a cute nightgown that reached to the middle of her thigh, there was some slight tares to the garment, but it all added to the effect. [=

Notice: I hope you all have been watching the very educational series “Stephen Fry In America” indeed it is the last episode on Sunday at 9pm BBC 1. Ahhhhh, and soon he will be doing “Last Chance To See” he is filming now and you can see what he has been up too on Afrycam

Well, well, thank you for reading about my outings my darlings. Maybe if we are good the Doctors will let us out… Or they will think it’s just a ploy to make them think that we are being good, so our efforts don’t get recognised the way in which we wish them to be interpreted. This leaves a lot to be desired… in whether we should put the effort in or not. Anyhow, as a buzzing busy bee I have been, I have to get on with coursework and grease rehearsals and such, so sorry if you don’t hear from me in a while. We will also be speaking when I am a year older. 16 enables you to do such a lot, Maybe I will have privileges in the Asylum? whom will know, well the doctors will of course.

I give what I can of my heart to you.

XxX

More, More, More...

2008-08-05T19:12:00.011+01:00

Mourning my darlings,

First of all I would like to say how sorry I am on not blogging in a while, it has been slightly hectic. Well hectic in a non hectic way... if you would like to catch my wave. Well I have been wondering what to write in this blog, being stuck for ideas. Me! Stuck! Well it happens sometimes, and I should have lots of ideas seen as it's the summer holidays. Hmm... well I have achieved a lot recently, so I thought why not write about that. So this is what has happened at My Asylum recently. Unfortunately that might be a tad boring so I'm going to write about something else as well (skip the next paragraph if you don't want to hear about me).

The first thing I decided to do was make a skirt. It's a full length black skirt made from bed sheet material (WARNING: stand with a light behind you e.g. sun it becomes slightly see-through.) I used one of those dress making patterns, where you get the stencil and just have to cut it out, all the measuring is done for you. I think it turned out pretty well. That had not satisfied my creativity though, so I set my sights on designing 2 tank tops. (I think more leeches are needed) So buying 2 cheep white tank tops from Tescos, I set about on them with my black marker pen. Oh the joys one can have from black marker pen. My first one exclaims on the front that I am a "Wayward Victorian Girl" while on the back it very rightly says "The Asylum Is My Home" very fitting. My other top comments on "The Poisoned Tea-Party" and on the back "Are You Suffering?" Which could quite possible be one of the best quotes created by Emilie Autumn. Oh yes some very important news about that, but it can wait. As if that wasn't enough to stem the flow of my creativity (which was rapidly becoming a torrent) I decided as well to learn the violin. My thoughts go at once to the doctors whom have listened to me screech and scrape the bow across the wires. Also I would like to say this it is a carefully had carved antique violin that has been in the most elegant of hands, but it is not so. It just so happens to be a rather quirky electric violin, black of course. A picture is suited below. At the moment I am self teaching myself it from a book, which tells me that i can now play the D major scale. As it also just so happens, I have also got a job. It is not highly paid, but at least I am earning. One of the disadvantages and advantages is that it is in a store that I love, hence the reason I would like to buy nearly everything that is in there. Its a little Alternative store called Naquiba I love it. The people are so friendly there and always welcoming. so that has also been taking up a lot of my time.
My Violin [=

Now my darlings I am going to move my topic away from me, and on to Celebs. I know we hear allot about Celebrities in the society we live in today, we even have magazines devoted to them *sigh*. well I must tell you now that I am not a Celebrity lover. I do not care about what is happening to Paris Hilton or Lindsy Lohan at 3 in the morning and whether they have been flashing their nickers or have non on at all. Also in no way, shape, or form care on the pubic view towards them. Except for, that is, David Tennant. Now your all probably there sighing in to your cups of tea, going "she's bloody obsessed isn't she, I bet she has posters of him all over her cell." Well your wrong, I only have two posters of him on my cell wall. Yes i do find him attractive and an extremely good actor, but what I do not do, is stalk him. At the moment he is preforming Hamlet at The Courtyard Theatre in Stratford Upon Avon (the reviews are great), which just so happens to be the place where I work. I have not seen him about yet, but now it seems even more unlikely that anyone will even get a glimpse of this man. Every time he goes out in to town the poor man gets ambushed by screaming fan girls (and boys) and foreign tourists. My heart goes out to him. The director of this play is being extremely unreasonable and is now saying that he can't go in to his favourite cafe and if he does it has to be shut because it apparently it becomes "a doctor who convention". My friend walked past him the other day and casually said "Hi" as he was being mobbed, "they're all Spanish" was his reaction. Doesn't that tug your heart strings? The poor man can't even go in to his favourite cafe shop, walk down the street or even come out of the theatre with out a crowd of people following him. I really do hope it dies down, and all you out there trying to stalk him, give him a little room to breath, he deserves it.

Talking about famous people, you will never guess what. I shall give you a clue: She is coming to Birmingham. Wait that's two clues, oh well. Guessed yet? Oh I give up. I HAVE EMILIE AUTUMN TICKETS!!! Yes I am going to see her on the 3rd of October in the barfly. I cannot wait. Seriously after this gig, they are going to have to lock me up forever and a day.

Also speaking about music, that has made me think. At the moment I have been listening to a lot of Gershwin, George Gershwin to be precise. I did not realise how much of an amazing composer he is. Most people know things of his such as "Summer time" sang by Peter Gabriel (Lyrics by Ira Gershwin, the brother), I Got Rhythm, along with Porgy and Bess the Opera. But just listening to Rhapsody in Blue, the complexity of the piece is just astounding, using all instruments to their full potential, and the clarinet at the start, it just blows my mind. The strings joining in conspicuously when the clarinet trills gives it that sharp edge, while the piano softens the tone. Its pace, rhythm and diversity of the piece lets me never get bored of what I am hearing over the 15 minutes of playing. and the same is true of all his pieces including Second Rhapsody, which I like to wake up to in the morning and lie there in my bed listening to. Also, do look at the website is you don't know them, the jukebox is pretty good.

Moving on now from a music review to a book review. Written again by someone who is in the public attention and I admire. Stephen Fry's The Stars Tennis Balls. An amazing book about a School boy who's life is perfect, until he ends up being put in a privet Lunatic Asylum and is told his whole life is a lie. Finally he gets out and takes revenge on those whom put him in there. It's a thrilling read, that makes you really want to keep going. I read it in just under 6 hours and could not put it down. Apart from Moab Is My Wash Pot, this has to be one of the best Stephen Fry books I have read, in fact probably one of the best books I have read. I suggest now that you all bugger your keepers and doctors in to getting you a copy. I fact I don't care how you do it, just get one!

Right then my darlings, I hope that has entertained you for a few minuets at least. it is now 3am in the morning and i must retire to my bed, for I have a busy day ahead of me tomorrow Filled with joy and excitement. Remember: be nice to the doctors and they might be nice to you.

Good morrow all.

and much Love.

XxX

Videos and TV [=

2008-06-27T16:42:00.006+01:00

Now now now my darlings,
As you know it is rather boring in the asylum with nothing much to do, so I thought you might want some entertainment to ... well .. err.. entertain you?

Now this video is a Fan vid I made myself of Captin Jack Harkness, the main character of Torchwood a spin off from Doctor Who, starring John Barrowman.

Now, I do quite a few... well am starting to anyway, fan videos of the programmes I watch religiously, or people I love. I find it quite fun (and you get to watch the bits you love over and over again ;] ) All my videos are on YouTube so if you want to find me I am http://www.youtube.com/easytigerbeth Sorry for the self promoting, but you never know.

Anyhow, this brings me swiftly on to my next subject my favourite programmes. Well, I don't have that many you will be relieved to find out, but still enough to make a list out of.

Doctor Who
Torchwood
House
Greys Anatomy
Skins
Kingdom
NCIS
Heros

They are a couple... or more than two, yes more than two, even if you look at it upside down. Ah well, I do watch more, say if the BBC does a thing like Blackpool or Casanova I shall watch. It's good quality TV unlike that Big brother. I really don't need another asylum to cope with. That list is watched in order of priority, luckily they are on in different seasons of the year, and days.

House has just had its penultimate episode (UK) and it looks really exciting, but really sad its ended. Hugh Laurie is such an amazing actor, I could never do an accent like him. Also Greys Anatomy is coming to an end too, the last story line is a 3 parter and we have just had the first part, I can't wait for the next couple of eps but am also going to be extremely sad when it ends. I do hope they carry on and do more series for both programmes. The next episode of doctor who also looks amazing, the torchwood team are going to be in it, Rose and Sarah Jane. Daleks are going to be in it too with Davros. Its going to be really exciting, and that's tomorrow (Saturday)!

Anyhow my Darling chicks, I am going to be off now. Have fun, don't do anything I wouldn't do (not much to cancel there really)

Love.

XxX

It Must Be Love.

2008-06-20T00:21:00.004+01:00

Seriously, I'm talking serious fashion love.

Antique Shops. I can't get enough of them... its like an addiction that will not be satisfied. I live near Stratford Upon Avon, Shaggspeare land, there are about 3 antique shops there, one is an antique center (its HUGE). They are so pretty and as I was saying to my friend, I could buy them all up and keep them if I had the money. I just adour them.

Most think antique shops are tacky and old. Well, yes they maybe old but have you seen the stuff they sell? One can get a really good bargain, something really pretty or interesting. Indeed it does fuel my passion for the Victorian era, having an abundance in chokers and pocket watches for me to gaze at and wish I had money for. Yes okay, I do find I spend most of my time just staring at the garments that I wish I had the money for, but that's all part of the experience isn't it? I find that if you go in there one can pick up some really good ideas to make stuff.

In one of the shop windows, they have the most elegant choker, I just couldn't walk away. so after standing there for a couple of minutes I decided to go in and ask for the price, praying that it was too expensive for me. £110, i couldn't buy it, but it gave me inspiration.

I suppose its one of those things, you ether love them or hate them. [=

Ah yes, and I suppose I should inform the asylum, my previously blond hair, is now green purple and blue. O__o I love it, but it was meant to be black. Oops. Remember check the dye first. Its lucky I have a four day weekend so I can wash it out... it wasn't permanent so don't worry.

Righty, I really should be in bed now, being 1am in them morning, and I am really tyred, so it would explain the sentence structures of this post... actually, I'm just rubbish at sentences. English is not my strong point, science is (i hope).

Oh and also: Emilie Autumn '4 O'clock' is out, and guess whom has it? Correct it is me. A brilliant piece of musical genius. 3 new songs, 3 remixes and ... 2 recordings of her up coming book! I know, she has spoilt us here my darlings.

I really must be going now, the ward inspectors are getting suspicious.
Night Night, and don't let the bed bug bite.

Me, It and Those?

2008-03-31T03:42:00.010+01:00

Dearest My Insane Ones,

This is my first blog, and its probably going to be quite boring. If you get through this then I will commend you to the doctors and you can have some extra free time. Indeed i do have a taste for the Victorian style of life and I will explain soon enough, but first I think I better explain ones self.

I am Bethany, I don't really like my name, probably because its not me at all. I am a Goth and proud, not emo, call me emo and I will have to slit your throat with the surgeons knife. When one says Goth the automatic image that springs to mind is black and studded listening to thrash, well I'm not like that... well... I wear black, red and blue mainly black though. Elegance is what i go for, replacing studs for lace, band T-shirts for tight tops and corsets, tights for stockings, those sort of things. Yes, one is a Victorian Goth. I have a saying and one finds it extremely helpful to stick to it:

Its All; Ribbons and Laces,
Stockings and Corsets,
Chokers and Gauntlets.

This makes a truly refined woman. Fashion, I feel is an art of mine. I put my whole self in to creating an individual look. I do go slightly mad at the sight of lace and have to buy it... but that's not my fault right? I love to be an inspiration to others as long as they don't go stealing my look, because then you feel a part of you has been taken away, isn't yours anymore.

Music. I listen to all sorts, when people say all sorts you expect a few genres but not to many. Lets just say there is nothing I won't give a go. From Classical to Death Metal, I love to listen to it. A few of my favourites are:

Emilie Autumn
Jack Off Jill
The Dresden Dolls
KoRn
Tool
Debussy
Micheal Buble
Moi Dix Mois
Nox Arcana
London After Midnight

And they are just a few. I play jazz quite allot on my saxophone, which is fun. Classical on my clarinet, which I now play spontaneously once every 4 months. I am taking my grade 5 jazz soon, which will be nerve racking, but I can't wait. Any way enough about me.

The name for my blog, 'The Asylum For Victorian Girls', Originates from Emilie Autumn whom performs a genre of music called Victoriandustrial, this mainly involves Violins, Harpsichords and the voice mixed to sound slightly industrial; moving away from the musical element, she also has a fashion which is mixed between Victorian, Goth and Punk. Miss Autumn also calls where she is based 'The Asylum'. Not meaning any plagiarism by this, i am truly interested in the Victorian times and how they treated their patients. Medical advances were just being made but also still quite a lot of the old remedies, such as bleeding the insane. Hopefully many a time throughout these blogs one may see a comment sidled in about the asylum. I must say the Victorians also had one of the best periods (on my say so) for Artists, Musicians and Writers, People with the likes of: George Richmond, Henry Moore, Bach, Wagner, Edgar Allan Poe and Oscar Wild. All extremely talented in their line of creativity. You will probably hear me referring to Edgar Allan Poe (EAP) and Oscar Wild (OW) allot in quotes or in little things one may mention, being my favourite authors. On most of my possessions and other things you may find scrawled over them 'The Victorian Revolution', politically incorrect, because the Victorians never had a full revolution. They managed to have many smaller revolutions of technical abilities, and of course there was the industrial revolution. I use this term because as they say "what comes around, goes around" meaning i am referring to the future when i say "Victorian Revolution".

As for my blogs, you can probably tell they are going to be a tad random, i will try and entertain you if one gets bored. And if you have read this far, extra leeches will be needed i will inform the doctor. I may not be correct on everything but I will try my hardest; it sometimes may not be relevant, but does that matter?

Well thank you so much for reading this. My dearest farewells and I Hope you enjoy the rest of your day.

Au Revior

Beth.